Brisbane rising alternative rockers Stateside are releasing their highly anticipated EP ‘Naïve’ tomorrow (25 May). All their heartbreak, anger and sadness has been channelled into 6 incredible tracks set to take the world by storm one beat at a time. We were lucky enough to have a chat with the band to find out just how they become Stateside and what they have been up to.
How did you come up with the name Stateside?
We had a few names before we became Stateside and we just couldn’t find one that would stick – but Erin’s a huge Knuckle Puck fan, so that’s where it came from!
How long have you guys been together, and how did you meet?
We met in high school and formed in 2014, been best friends every since.
Your EP ‘Naïve’ is being released on May 25th, how are you feeling?
[Erin] I’m hyped and shook all at the same time. It’s so nerve racking to be releasing such personal lyrics/feelings for the world to hear, but I hope that some people can relate and enjoy. That’s what music is about in the end. I think the boys are all just as excited as I am, though. We’re keen to play it all live!
What themes musically and lyrically did you try to tackle with this EP?
At the time of writing this EP we were listening to a lot of Bring Me The Horizon and PVRIS and I think it really shows instrumentally. They’re both huge influences in our music. Lyrically, it follows a lot of anger, sometimes sadness. It’s a big mix of heartbreak, really.
Who has the most influence during the writing process, or is it all pretty even?
We’re all pretty equal when it comes to writing. Erin tackles the lyrics and the guys smash the instrumentals – the system has worked pretty well so far.
When did you start creating the songs for this EP?
We started recording ‘Naïve’ in February 2016 – and after a long process, 15 months later we’re finally releasing it!
Your music video for single The Way We Were has had a huge response of over 240,000 views in 2 months! Tell us a little about the idea, filming of this.
When we wrote the song we knew we wanted the video to be dark and serious. I think it was a mutual idea that we should be in the rain and everything built up from there! It was filmed in a storage unit in Ethan’s back yard so we took a whole day out to clear it, knock down a wall, paint it and hook all the hoses up. Unfortunately we decided to film it in winter and we were soaking wet in crazy cold temperatures – luckily none of us got sick.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
[Erin] Personally, I think filming the music video for The Way We Were and also listening to Naïve for the first time are both huge highlights. I’m so blessed to be creating music that I love with people that I love.
Who plays what role within the band? Mum, Dad, Bank etc?
Ethan’s the key to most/all information when it comes to the band. Brendan’s such a dad. Hamish is always the guy to bring positivity into any situation. Jackson is the new ears and new perspective on our music. Erin’s the mumma bear/provoker of madness.
When the band is relaxing together, what music would be playing in the background?
You’ll find us listening to local bands or 90’s bangers.
Drink of choice?
Erin & Jackson are vodka gals. Bren, Eth and Ham drink bundy rum.
Worst piece of life advice?
DOG THE BOYS
Naïve is released TOMORROW! Purchase EP bundles HERE & stream HERE.
Naïve EP Tracklist
1. Livingstone Road
2. This Is War
3. Neon
4. Jaded
5. The Way We Were
6. Hard To Love
